Hike to Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery)
Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) is Bhutan’s iconic cliffside monastery — a pilgrimage site and one of the country’s most photographed landmarks. Perched about 900 m above the Paro valley floor, the complex of temples clings to a granite cliff and offers dramatic views, rich religious history, and a moderately strenuous hike through pine and rhododendron forest.
Location
Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery), Paro, Bhutan
Duration
Approximately 4–5 hours round-trip from the trailhead (including time at the monastery). If you include more stops or rest, allow 5–7 hours.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May) for rhododendron blooms and Autumn (September–November) for stable weather and clear skies. Avoid the monsoon months (June–August) for slippery trails; winter (Dec–Feb) is possible but colder and occasionally snowy.
Pricing
There is no formal separate ticket for the trail. However:
- International visitors must be on a Bhutan travel package that covers the government daily tariff (SDF) and visa.
- The monastery accepts voluntary donations; small entrance/donation amounts (roughly BTN 100–500 / $1–7) are common for upkeep.
- Expect additional costs for guide fees, transport from Paro town (~BTN 200–600 depending on arrangement), and refreshments at the tea house.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Dramatic cliffside monastery complex built in the 17th century (site linked to Guru Rinpoche / Padmasambhava).
Panoramic views over the Paro valley and surrounding Himalayan foothills.
Forest trail with pine and rhododendron — scenic and tranquil.
Tea-house/refreshment stop about halfway up with local snacks and views.
Cultural and spiritual experience: prayer flags, chortens and opportunity to witness Bhutanese monastic life (subject to monastery access rules).
Itinerary
Meet in Paro town / hotel pickup and short drive to the trailhead (Satsam Chorten or base car park).
Confirm permits and guide; use restroom at trailhead. Dress in layers.
Begin hike on the uphill trail through forest.
Initial sections are steady climb; pace yourself to conserve energy.
Tea-house stop (approx halfway) for rest and refreshments.
Popular spot for photos and to catch your breath. Carry cash for purchases; toilets available but basic.
Arrive at the viewpoint above the monastery (best panoramic photo spot).
From here you get the iconic view of the monastery clinging to the cliff. Continue along stone steps to the monastery complex.
Visit the monastery (subject to opening hours and access) or circumambulate the nearby shrines and prayer wheels.
Respect monastery rules: modest clothing, no loud talking, and photography may be restricted inside. Donations and longer prayers may extend your visit.
Return descent to the tea-house and then to the trailhead; transfer back to Paro town.
Descent is steep in places—take care on the steps. Expect muscle fatigue; rest and hydrate.
Safety Requirements
Acclimatize to altitude — Paro valley is ~2,200 m and the monastery sits near ~3,120 m; allow a day or two in Paro before the hike if arriving from low altitude.
Good, broken-in hiking shoes with grip; the trail has rocky and steep stone steps.
Bring enough water and snacks — dehydration and low energy increase risk of problems.
Not recommended for people with severe heart or respiratory conditions or very poor mobility (steep, narrow stair sections).
Use a local guide for navigation, cultural context, and to comply with monastery/permit rules.
Be cautious in wet or icy conditions — trail can be slippery; poles help for both ascent and descent.
Tips
Start early to avoid crowds and midday clouds — aim to begin the hike by 08:00.
Carry 1–1.5 L water, high-energy snacks, sunscreen and sunglasses. Dress in layers — mornings are cool and midday can warm up.
Carry small local currency (BTN) for tea-house purchases and monastery donations.
Respect local customs: cover shoulders and knees, remove hats inside shrines, and ask before photographing monks or worshippers.
Hire a local guide or book the hike through your hotel/tour operator — guides help with permits, translations and ensure a culturally respectful visit.
Use trekking poles for comfort on steep sections and to reduce strain on knees during descent.
Allow extra time for photography, slow hikers, or if you want to spend longer at the monastery.
